Fill gaps in your smile with fixed Dental Bridges

Video Transcript

A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.

Fixed dental bridges are secure (non-removable) replacements for natural teeth. While at Abel, Phan, & Associates, we work closely with patients in Sterling, Virginia, and the surrounding area to preserve their natural teeth. A tooth that is irrevocably damaged by decay or trauma can be replaced in a way that feels and looks natural. Unlike prosthetic dental devices (like conventional dentures), bridges are cemented to existing, neighboring teeth. These teeth “anchor” the replacement tooth (or pontic) in place. 

Restore your smile and quality of life … with a bridge

A traditional bridge may be in order when you are missing a tooth or several teeth. It’s necessary to consult with Drs Anna Abel and Chuong Phan about tooth replacement promptly following extractions. Gaps in your smile cause otherwise healthy teeth to shift, hastening a “bad bite.” Bone loss in the jaw also begins quickly and can cause devastating functional and aesthetic problems by altering facial appearance, chewing efficiency, and speech clarity.

Like a bridge over a road or body of water spans two points, the dental bridge spans the space (or spaces) between teeth. The teeth that are adjacent to the missing space(s) support and stabilize the replacement tooth. These anchor or abutment teeth must be crowned. All dental crowns require that the natural tooth structure be filed down or reduced. So, that way, the crowns fit correctly over the natural teeth. Impressions or models of the abutments are made, which are used to guide the fabrication of your permanent bridge. The bridge itself is placed as a single piece to the natural teeth. This piece is made up of crowns and at least one pontic or replacement tooth. As our dental lab makes the bridge, a temporary bridge is placed to fill in the gaps and protect the prepared site. You return to our office when the permanent bridge is ready to be affixed to the anchoring teeth. 

With proper care, bridges can last a lifetime. We are happy to provide guidance on appropriate tools and techniques to clean thoroughly underneath the bridge. During a consultation at Abel, Phan, & Associates, DDS, in Sterling, VA, we can discuss other options such as bridges supported by implants placed in the jaw. Call us at (571) 450-9848 to schedule your appointment. 

Dr. Anna Abel

Dr. Anna Abel, a highly experienced dentist with over 20 years of expertise, is known for her patient-centered care and her dedication to volunteer work. She specializes in cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, bone grafts, and dental implants, and has been trained by influential figures like Dr. Peter Dawson. Her association with the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and her global outreach through Operation Smile and Hope for Tomorrow, where she offers essential dental services to underserved communities, further highlight her profound knowledge and commitment to her profession.

Dr. Chuong Phan

Dr. Chuong Phan, a Howard University College of Dentistry graduate, brings over 20 years of expertise to his practice. Specializing in orthodontic treatment and root canal therapy, Dr. Phan has advanced his skills through training with the American Orthodontic Society and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Dedicated to serving communities in need, Dr. Phan volunteers at Northern Virginia Dental Clinic and participates in global missions with Operation Smile and Hope for Tomorrow. His commitment to health education and community service reflects his compassionate, patient-centered approach to dental care.